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2020 Coconut Wireless
Kaua'i Association Bids Aloha to Jeannie Thompson
January 29, 2020
On Tuesday, January 28, the Kaua'i Association said, "Farewell" to Jeannie Thompson, who is ending her ministry with Kapa‘a UCC after 14 years of service in the church and the Association. They thanked her with a potluck dinner at the Lihue United Church. View photos from the evening.
January 29, 2020
Haili Church Brings Inspiring Sign into the Light
January 15, 2020
In 1900 during alterations and repairs at Haili Church (211 Haili Street, Hilo), the old motto "Ua La'a No Iehova" (Dedicated to God) was gilded in gold leaf above the choir by the wish of the blind Deacon Kawaha, and at his own expense.
"That all may see that the place is dedicated to the Lord, even if my old eyes cannot look upon the words, but my heart is established thereon, and that the young generation may reverence the name of Iehova."
This message inspired a generation of Hawaiians in their Christian faith until the large pipe organ covered the wall in 1929. The sign awaited its resurrection for public viewing for 90 years.
In 2019 the pipe organ underwent a massive upgrade and renovation. Part of the back wall and the entire sign was removed to preserve it during this renovation. A local artist, Miles Sumida, framed it in curly koa and re-hung it at the rear of the auditorium.
Last Christmas Eve during the Candlelight Service, Brian Welsh and the Deacons revealed the sign in all its authentic glory. A formal dedication with Hawaiian oli and anointing was held Sunday, December 29, 2019 during the end of the year Unity Service. Haili Church members encourage the community to come worship and be inspired by this historic sign during regular Sunday services!
Going and Growing Green in the Spirit
January 8, 2020
On December 15, 2019, the Kids Klub children of Lihu'e Christian Church led their congregation in ushering in a new church-wide mission, Going and Growing Green in the Holy Spirit. Each person in worship that morning was gifted with a reusable set of eating utensils to reduce the use of single-use plastic ware in circulation. Read more about how the children are leading the way in this new initiative.
View Photos from Blue Christmas Service on O'ahu
January 8, 2020
Ka Hana O Ke Akua Church on O'ahu held a Blue Christmas Service at Poka‘i Bay Beach Park on December 21, 2019. Read more about the service and view photos from that day.
In Memory: Clement Malani, Sr.
February 12, 2020
Kahu Clement Malani, Sr., retired Kahu of his home church, Laupahoehoe Congregational Church, passed away on February 5, 2020 in Hilo, Hawai'i. He is survived by his wife, Ruby, adult children and their families. Further details are still pending.
Steve Jerbi Serves as Interim Pastor
February 12, 2020
Steve Jerbi began serving as Interim Pastor of Lana'i Union Church and his first Sunday in worship was February 2. He is an ordained Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ECLA) minister and is joined by his wife, Jen, and their two daughters on Lāna'i.
February 12, 2020
The Spring Mokupuni of the 'Aha O Nā Mokupuni 'O Maui, Moloka'i a me Lāna'i (Tri-Isle Association) was held February 8 at Iao United Church of Christ in Wailluku.
February 12, 2020
The Association of Hawaiian Evangelical Churches (AHEC) held its Spring 'Aha Hālawai on January 31 – February 1 at Waiola Church in Lahaina.
HCUCC Joins Effort to Support Individuals Targeted Because of Religion
February 5, 2020
At the last Conference Council meeting on February 1, the Council voted to have the Hawai'i Conference sign on to an amicus brief in the case of Muslims who were targeted by government officials because of their religion, a case that is now before the U.S. Supreme Court.
The Hawai'i Conference was approached by the attorney writing the amicus brief to join an interfaith coalition of religious groups in signing on to the brief. Read the entire amicus brief HERE.